Effortless Classic Bread Pudding Recipe
Bread pudding is a timeless and comforting dessert that has been a staple in British kitchens for centuries. It’s a fantastic way to use up stale bread, transforming it into a delicious treat that is loved by all. This classic bread pudding recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The result is a warm, custardy pudding that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dessert for family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 6 cups of stale bread, torn into small pieces
– 2 cups of whole milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup of raisins (optional)
– Butter, for greasing the baking dish
– Demerara sugar, for sprinkling on top
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread: Start by tearing the stale bread into small pieces and placing them in a large mixing bowl. You can use a combination of white and whole wheat bread for added flavor and texture.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with butter. This will prevent the pudding from sticking to the dish as it bakes.
3. Make the Custard Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. This mixture will form the custard base for the bread pudding.
4. Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the torn bread in the mixing bowl. Gently toss the bread pieces in the custard until they are well coated. If desired, add the raisins at this stage for extra sweetness and flavor.
5. Bake the Pudding: Transfer the bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with a generous amount of Demerara sugar for a crunchy texture.
6. Bake and Serve: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the bread pudding for 35-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown on top and set in the middle. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the classic bread pudding warm, either on its own or with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This delicious dessert is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
In conclusion, this classic bread pudding recipe is a simple yet satisfying dessert that is perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover bread or craving a cozy treat, this pudding is sure to become a go-to favorite in your baking repertoire. Try making this recipe at home and experience the joy of effortlessly creating a delicious and timeless dessert that will please your taste buds and warm your soul.